The Nati

The ancedotal evidence I have seen about new condo developments and sales was validated by a report from DCI today in the Enquirer. The new developments are increasing, sales are increasing and sale prices are increasing. I like to think that I get a little bit of both worlds with my home in Newport. Proximity to downtown and work (I can walk to work downtown), proximity to entertainment/restaurtants in Newport and Downtown, but also have the luxury of a small but manageable yard, and the family neighborhood atmosphere.

It's great news to see the Urban Core revitalized. While downtown living certainly isn't going to be for everyone (the target is obviously YPs and Empty Nesters), a strong and thriving downtown is better for the entire region. The stronger and safer Cincinnati is, the more attractive Cincinnati and N.KY suburbs are going to be. I have great hopes for the continued resedential boom, and for things like the Fountain Square redesign. Soon we need to see some of the ammenties come to the urban area like grocery, delis, restaurants, etc that maintain the same hours as suburban equivalents.

CinWeekly has put together an impressive 3 day lineup of local original live music on the Cin Stage. I'm impressed by the support the local music scene. Should be great. Some of the highlights (Click to Listen): The Sundresses, Kentucky Struts, Heartless Bastards, Clabbergirl, Swarthy Band, Stapletones, Moth. You can also check out an mp3 sampler of all the CinStage bands.

The Chamber and YPCincy are co-hosting the Fountain Square Plan unveiling that I mentioned lower. They are seeking RSVPs to ensure a good head count, and adequate space.

The Fountain Square Sounding Session will be held at McFadden's (19 E. 7thSt.) from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 1, 2005. Check-in and networking begins at 6:00 p.m., and the program starts promptly at 6:30p.m. Enjoy a wonderful spread of free appetizers and a cash bar. After the program, everyone is welcome to stay at the bar and continue the conversation.

Space is limited, so we encourage you to visit YPCincy and sign up ASAP to reserve your spot!

Coconut Grove is going back to the Syndicate... well half way. The flashy colors and the giant glowing palm trees that were added to Coconut Grove when it re-branded a year and a half ago are leaving. But the Gangster Theme of the original Syndicate will not return. Instead they'll keep the hollywood theme, with the art decco facade, but with much more muted colors. I welcome the change, I thought the colors and palm trees were offensive to the overall atmosphere of Newport, especially so close to the historic district.

They are using the change as a PR opportunity and are offering those hideous palm trees for auction. All proceeds will benefit Northern Kentucky Children's Advocacy Center of the St. Luke Hospitals.

Enjoy the chance to be one of the first non-Council members to hear details of 3CDC's revised comprehensive plan for Fountain Square.

On Wednesday, June 1st, from 6-8 p.m. at McFadden's you will see the vision as presented by Steve Leeper himself, president of 3CDC. McFadden's owner Tommy Flynn will provide his 400-person back room, free appetizers and a cash bar for this Young Professional Focus group.

The Business Courier had some interesting details of the plan, but come see it first hand next wednesday.

It's been 3 days... the Reds are 3-0. Related? Probably not, but maybe there is something to it. Maybe folks realize their jobs are on the line and they shouldn't get comfortable. I am glad to see the Reds willing to part with payroll when the performance isn't there. I swore off the Reds 3 weeks ago, as Graves continued to struggle... I said as long as Graves was the closer they didn't deserve my money... well I can go back to Great American again!

Okay, so it was just the first Sunday, and surely attendance will decrease, but both the North and South lots (with the freshly painted mural) were full, and the market was brimming with people.

Once all the Esse Strassen vendors are open and there are places to sit and eat, what a great Sunday afternoon it will make... head on down in the early afternoon (perhaps after church), grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants south of the market, catch the music, and then get your grocery shopping out of the way with some of the freshest produce, and best meat you'll find. Who says Cincinnati isn't interesting?

I created a post on this last week, but wanted to kick off the official campaign. I am taking a trip to Ecuador in October to build homes with Habitat for Humanity as part of a group of volunteers with Give Back Cincinnati. As part of this trip I am hoping to raise a substantial donation for the Habitat Affiliate in Ecuador. But rather than just beg for donations, I have created a challenge for myself.

• There are 2,984 miles between Cincinnati, USA and Catamayo, Ecuador.
• Over the next 100 days (May 15th - Aug 23rd) I intend to take a journey to ride/run/walk 2,984 minutes (nearly 30 minutes a day).

I am looking for people to make a pledge per minute of excercise, with the total combined donation goal of $1.00/minute or $2,984 for Habitat Ecuador.

This website explains it in more detail, and allows for a quick and easy way for you to make a per minute pledge. (All donations are to Give Back Cincinnati and are tax deductible.)

MAKE YOUR PLEDGE TODAY